Billy Vunipola is a major doubt for England‘s upcoming Six Nations title defence after Saracens confirmed that the number eight has fractured his forearm.
The 25-year-old was forced off at half-time in Sarries’ 15-15 draw with Ospreys in the European Champions Cup.
He had only recently returned to action from a knee operation last summer.
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X-rays confirmed the latest injury and Vunipola is set to see a specialist this week to confirm how long he will be out of action – initial suggestions are he could be out for 10 weeks.
In a statement the club said: “Saracens can confirm that as a result of an injury sustained in Saturday’s European Rugby Champions Cup match against Ospreys, Billy Vunipola has fractured his forearm,” a statement read. “Vunipola had an x-ray today (Sunday) confirming the injury.
“Billy is due to see a specialist later this week, when a timeframe for recovery may be defined. But until that time Saracens will make no further comment. Saracens will issue a further statement once Billy has seen a specialist.”
The 2018 Six Nations takes place from 3 February to 18 March.